Michigan lawmakers have introduced two bills, HB 5360 and HB 5361, aimed at strengthening animal protection laws by clarifying standards for proper care, neglect, and cruelty. HB 5360 defines adequate daily care requirements, updates dog shelter and tethering rules, and notably recognizes individually trained miniature horses as service animals, aligning state law with federal standards. It also enhances cruelty protocols by requiring timely owner notification after animal seizure and allowing courts to impose pet ownership bans and counseling, with penalties escalating based on the severity and number of animals involved.

HB 5361 targets the intentional killing, torturing, or injuring of companion animals, establishing felony charges with penalties up to ten years in prison and fines. Both bills exclude lawful activities such as hunting, farming, and licensed veterinary care from criminalization. Together, these measures aim to provide clearer, stronger protections for animals and their caretakers in Michigan, while giving courts more tools to address serious abuse and ensuring consistency with federal service animal definitions.